Valerie Bertinelli Exits KIDS BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP
By Movieguide® Contributor
Actress Valerie Bertinelli announced on Instagram that she will no longer be a host on Food Network’s KIDS BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP.
In an emotional video, she shared the news with her followers.
“I’ve been avoiding facing what I got confirmation for last night, and I didn’t want to talk about it last night. I wanted to sleep on it because it hurt my feelings,” Bertinelli said. “And I know that it’s not supposed to logically, I know that it’s business. Budget cuts, right? But it really hurt my feelings to know that I’m not going to be asked back…it really sucks.”
She explained that what is currently broadcasting was filmed two years ago.
“The episodes that are airing now, I shot back in the summer of 2022, which was my apex year of hell,” Bertinelli continued. “Without sounding like a drama queen, the show saved my life. It’s just [that] working with all of those really wonderful people and feeling productive, and knowing I could spread some kindness…it helped me. It was like a flotation device. So, it really hurts that I won’t be able to go back and see everybody and say, ‘Hey, I made it through,’”
Many followers expressed their disappointment, including celebrities such as Khloe Kardashian who said, “I looooove this show and watch it daily. I record it and all…The way you are with the children is magical. Your understanding and advice to them is key… I’m so sorry! This does suck and I understand why your feelings are hurt.”
Variety reported, “Bertinelli signed a multi-series deal with Food Network in 2018, which expired in 2021. The pact was extended for an additional year and came to an end in 2022, when the currently airing Season 12 of ‘Kids Baking Championship’ was taped back to back with Season 11.”
“Her deal expired, they opted not to renew it,” Bertinelli’s manager Marc Schwartz explained.
“They could have come to me with an offer just for KIDS. They never did. Simple as that.”
While she won’t be returning to the KIDS BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP, Bertinelli will stay busy.
“Next up, Bertinelli is heading out on her cookbook tour for ‘Indulge: Delicious and Decadent Dishes to Enjoy and Share.’ She is currently evaluating offers from other platforms for future projects and deals,” MSN reported.
She will also participate in the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Miami on February 22-25.
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